If you love the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine and the comforting heartiness of pasta, the Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe is a game changer that you simply have to try. This vibrant dish beautifully marries the spicy, smoky notes of traditional jambalaya with creamy, saucy pasta, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Every bite bursts with seasoned chicken, zesty andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and a medley of fresh vegetables all coated in a luscious, slightly spicy tomato cream sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a bit of Southern warmth right to your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is both straightforward and exciting. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, color, and texture, making the Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe irresistible.
- Cooked penne or rotini pasta: These pasta shapes hold the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
- Sliced andouille sausage: Adds a smoky, spicy kick essential for authentic Cajun flavor.
- Diced chicken breast: Lean protein that absorbs the rich spices while keeping the dish hearty.
- Peeled shrimp: Offers a tender, slightly sweet contrast to the savory meat and spices.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing that brings everything together smoothly.
- Onion, bell pepper, celery: The classic “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking, delivering depth and sweetness.
- Garlic: Infuses fragrant, savory notes throughout the sauce.
- Crushed tomatoes: Provide body and a bright acidity to the creamy base.
- Chicken broth: Adds richness and helps meld all the flavors together.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice mix that brings that unmistakable Southern heat and complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Elevates the smoky undertones without overwhelming the palate.
- Oregano and thyme: Herbs that add earthiness and balance to the spice blend.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor in the pot.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy texture that makes this pasta so comforting.
- Hot sauce: Optional but highly recommended for that extra punch of heat.
- Green onions and parsley: Fresh herbs for vibrant color and a mild oniony finish on top.
How to Make Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until it’s just lightly browned and cooked through. Don’t rush this step — a nice sear locks in juices and flavor. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Cook the Andouille Sausage
In the same pan, toss in the sliced andouille sausage. Cook until it’s browned and has released its smoky aroma. This step adds those irresistible Cajun notes your taste buds are craving. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside with the chicken.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Next up, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pan — the holy trinity of Cajun cooking. Sauté them until they’re softened and the aroma fills your kitchen. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This mixture forms the flavorful foundation of your dish.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer. This sauce is where all the savory and spicy magic happens, so give it a few minutes to meld those flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Add Proteins and Shrimp
Return the chicken and sausage to the pan and follow with the peeled shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn a lovely pink hue, signaling they’re perfectly done. The combination of proteins makes this dish hearty, with layers of texture that keep every bite exciting.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Hot Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and a splash of hot sauce to bring richness and a creamy tang that balances the spices beautifully. This step transforms the sauce into that irresistible creamy Cajun pasta everyone loves.
Step 7: Toss Pasta and Simmer
Add the cooked penne or rotini pasta and toss it boldly until every piece is coated with the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors soak into the pasta. This final melding step ties the whole Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe together in harmony.
How to Serve Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference. Brighten your dish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley for a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous notes that cut through the richness. These garnishes give the dish a fresh, layered flavor profile and make for a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve Pastalya alongside a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread. Both complement the creamy, spicy pasta perfectly by adding crunch and freshness or soaking up any leftover sauce. A tangy coleslaw is another fantastic side, adding a crunchy contrast to the smooth, hearty pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress family or guests, serve your Pastalya in individual shallow bowls or rustic cast-iron skillets. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top adds a gourmet touch. For a fun twist, try baking it briefly with a layer of shredded cheese on top until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pastalya keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making for even tastier meals later on. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh and safe.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later, Pastalya freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. It’s a great meal prep option that lets you enjoy the comforting flavors of jambalaya pasta any time without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through. This ensures the creamy sauce stays smooth and the proteins stay tender.
FAQs
Can I make Pastalya without shrimp?
Absolutely! The shrimp is optional and can be replaced with extra chicken or sausage, or omitted completely if you prefer a meat-only version. The flavors will still be delicious and authentic.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best because they catch the sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite short pasta, whichever is on hand.
How spicy is this Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe?
The dish has a nice, balanced heat from the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice level up or down depending on your taste by adding more or less hot sauce and seasoning.
Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?
Yes! You can cook the proteins and sauté the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply combine everything and finish cooking the sauce and pasta for a quick meal.
Is this dish suitable for families with kids?
Definitely. You can tone down the spice to suit younger palates and they’ll still enjoy the creamy textures and savory flavors. The balanced mix of protein and veggies makes it a wholesome meal for all ages.
Final Thoughts
The Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that wraps comfort, spice, and a dash of Southern charm into every flavorful bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, give this recipe a try—it’s warm, inviting, and sure to become a beloved favorite at your table.
Print
Pastalya (Jambalaya Pasta) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
Pastalya, also known as Jambalaya Pasta, is a flavorful Cajun-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, spicy andouille sausage, and succulent shrimp with a creamy, seasoned tomato sauce. Tossed with cooked pasta and garnished with fresh green onions and parsley, this hearty skillet meal delivers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory depth, making it an ideal main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 lb diced chicken breast
- 8 oz sliced andouille sausage
- 8 oz peeled shrimp
Pasta
- 4 cups cooked penne or rotini pasta
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Liquids & Sauces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In the same pan, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Combine proteins: Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet. Add the peeled shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Add cream and heat: Stir in the heavy cream and hot sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Simmer flavors: Let the entire mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- Any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well for this recipe.
- Shrimp can be omitted or substituted with additional chicken or sausage based on preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
